2. +
Goal
Persuasion Writing
Goal of persuasive
writing:
To get reader to
agree with you/your
point of view on a
particular topic.
Argument Writing
Goal of argumentative
writing:
To get reader to
acknowledge that your
side is valid and
deserves consideration
as another point of
view.
3. +
General Technique
Persuasion Writing
Argument Writing
General technique of
persuasive writing:
General technique of
argumentative writing:
Blends facts and
emotion in attempt to
convince the reader
that the writer is
“right.”(Often relies
heavily on opinion.)
Offers the reader
relevant reasons,
credible facts, and
sufficient evidence to
honor the writer has a
valid and worthy
perspective.
4. +
Starting Point
Persuasion Writing
Starting point of
persuasive writing:
Identify a topic and
your side.
Argument Writing
Starting point of
argumentative
writing:
Research a topic and
then align with one
side.
5. +
Viewpoint
Persuasion Writing
Argument Writing
Viewpoint presented in
argumentative writing:
Viewpoint presented in
persuasive writing:
Persuasion has a single-minded
goal. It is based on a personal
conviction that a particular way of
thinking is the only sensible way
to think. Writer presents one
side— his side.
Acknowledge that opposing views
exist, not only to hint at what a
fair-minded person you are, but to
give you the opportunity to
counter these views tactfully in
order to show why you feel that
your own view is the more worthy
one to hold.
(Persuasive writing may include
ONE opposing point, it is then
quickly dismissed/refuted.)
Writer presents multiple
perspectives, although is clearly
for one side.
6. +
Audience
Persuasion Writing
Audience of persuasive
writing:
Needs intended
audience. Knowing what
they think and currently
believe, the writer
“attacks” attempting to
persuade them to his
side.
Argument Writing
Audience of
argumentative writing:
Doesn’t need an
audience to convince.
The writer is content
with simply putting it
out there.
7. +
Attitude (Tone)
Persuasion Writing
Argument Writing
Attitude (Tone) of
persuasive writing:
Attitude (Tone) of
argumentative writing:
Persuasive writers want
to gain another “vote” so
they “go after” readers
more aggressively.
Persuasive writing is
more personal, more
passionate, more
emotional.
Simply to get the reader
to consider you have an
idea worthy of listening
to. The writer is sharing a
conviction, whether the
audience ends up
agreeing or not.
